Dermatomyositis

Dallas

Plano

What is Dermatomyositis?

Dermatomyositis is a rare autoimmune disease characterized by muscle weakness and a skin rash. A healthy immune system protects your child from infection by attacking invaders such as viruses or other pathogens. In children with dermatomyositis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissue, causing inflammation. Dermatomyositis is part of a larger group of muscle disorders known as inflammatory myopathies.

At Children’s Health℠, we work closely with both you and your primary care provider so that everyone involved has the information they need to create the best outcomes for your child.

What are the signs and symptoms of Dermatomyositis?

Muscle weakness

Muscle pain or tenderness

Difficulty climbing stairs, getting into a car, or getting up out of a chair

A reddish-purple skin rash on the face, knuckles, neck, shoulders, upper chest or back

Difficulty swallowing

Shortness of breath

How is Dermatomyositis diagnosed?

There are several tests used to diagnose dermatomyositis in children. A doctor will go over your child's medical history and perform a physical exam. Your healthcare provider may also perform one or more of the following tests:

Electromyography, in which a thin needle is inserted through the skin and into the muscle to test the electrical activity of the muscle

Muscle biopsy, which involves the removal of a small amount of tissue from the muscle using a needle. The tissue is later examined under a microscope

Skin biopsy, which is the removal of a small amount of tissue from the skin using a small blade or skin punch tool. The tissue is later examined under a microscope

Not every child needs all these tests. Your physician will tell you exactly what the next steps are. Each year, the specialists at Children’s Health see more than 1,000 pediatric patients for dermatomyositis and other rheumatic disorders. We have the skills and resources necessary to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for your child too.

What are the causes of Dermatomyositis?

The exact cause of dermatomyositis is unknown. It is believed that it may be caused by a virus or by problems with the immune system.

How is Dermatomyositis treated?

The severity of your child’s dermatomyositis will determine the treatment. Your healthcare provider may recommend one or more of the following treatments:

Medications to suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation

Physical therapy to improve muscle strength and flexibility

Speech therapy to improve swallowing

Skin protection (sunscreen, protective clothing) to help control skin rash

Dietary changes to compensate for chewing or swallowing difficulties

Children’s Health is part of the largest and longest established multi-specialty clinic for children with rheumatic diseases in the region. In our rheumatology clinic, dedicated health care professionals help patients and their families manage diseases like dermatomyositis.

Children’s Health uses a multidisciplinary approach to caring for your child. This allows us to offer our patients care from multiple specialists and experts, in a single appointment, at one location. If your child has symptoms of a rheumatic disorder such as dermatomyositis, contact us. We provide the comprehensive and individualized care necessary to put your child back on the path to a healthy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my child has dermatomyositis?

If your child has symptoms of dermatomyositis, you should have him evaluated by a physician. Symptoms of dermatomyositis may include muscle weakness; muscle pain or tenderness; difficulty climbing stairs, getting into a car, or getting up out of a chair; a reddish-purple skin rash; difficulty swallowing and shortness of breath.